A Presidential Getaway

Celebrate Presidents' Day with a Family Trip

Part One

By Patricia Clark

Is your family bored with trips to the movies and amusement parks? Why not learn about plantation life at Thomas Jefferson's Monticello? Or test your child's skills in the Secret Agency in the Oval Office Program at Franklin Delano Roosevelt's Hyde Park? Or meet the resident ghost at John Tyler's Sherwood Forest?

Instead of another video game, how about a living history lesson at the homes and historic sites associated with our presidents? Nearly all are open to the public. Most feature programs for children, school project help and special family events. Since they are nationwide, chances are one is near your home. Be sure to check schedules, contacts and listings before you go to avoid disappointment because they frequently change. See you at the White House!

George Washington's Mount Vernon is a terrific spot to take your children. It offers scouting programs, land surveying, revolutionary war encampments, Colonial Days, wheat treading, archaeology fairs and more. Located in Mount Vernon, Va., you can get more information by calling 703-780-2000.

John Adams' birthplace is the oldest surviving presidential birthplace and dates back to 1670. It is located at 133 Franklin Street, Quincy, Mass. 617-770-1175

Thomas Jefferson's well known Monticello centers around plantation life including garden insect workshops and archaeology. It is located at 931 Thomas Jefferson Parkway, Charlottesville, Va.

Want to see more?

• Check out our Article Library.
• Take a Ride on the Underground Railroad: Indiana's African-American Heritage
• Cashiers, North Carolina: Patriotic Family Traditions
• Take a Trip Back in Time to Old Sturbridge Village
• Talk about it!